# (trihydroxy-phenyl)-propan-1-one

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**Safety rating:** SAFE
**CAS number:** 60-82-2
**Category:** flavoring
**FDA GRAS:** no
**Adverse events (FDA AERS):** 0
**FDA recalls:** 0
**Last updated:** 2026-04-04

## Summary

(Trihydroxy-phenyl)-propan-1-one, also known as raspberry ketone, is a naturally occurring organic compound used as a flavoring agent in food and beverages. It provides a characteristic fruity, raspberry-like aroma and taste to various food products.

## Regulatory status

| Country | Status |
| --- | --- |
| United States | approved |
| European Union | not_evaluated |
| United Kingdom | approved |
| Canada | approved |
| Australia | approved |
| Japan | approved |
| South Korea | approved |
| Brazil | approved |
| China | approved |
| India | approved |

## Detailed analysis

## What is (Trihydroxy-phenyl)-propan-1-one?

(Trihydroxy-phenyl)-propan-1-one (CAS Number: 60-82-2), commonly known as raspberry ketone or 4-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-3-buten-2-one, is a naturally derived aromatic compound found in red raspberries and other berries. It is a phenolic ketone with a molecular formula of C9H10O3. The compound exists naturally in very small quantities in raspberries, where it contributes to the characteristic fruity flavor profile. When synthesized for food use, it is chemically identical to its natural counterpart.

## Common Uses

Raspberry ketone is primarily employed in the food and beverage industry as a flavoring agent. It is used to provide authentic raspberry and other berry flavors to a wide range of products including:

- Beverages (juices, soft drinks, flavored waters)
- Baked goods (cakes, cookies, pastries)
- Confectionery products (candies, gums)
- Dairy products (yogurts, ice creams)
- Flavored syrups and sauces
- Nutritional supplements and functional foods

The compound is typically used in very small concentrations, as its potent aromatic properties mean minimal quantities are needed to achieve desired flavor effects. This allows manufacturers to create consistent fruity flavoring profiles across their product lines.

## Safety Assessment

Raspberry ketone has been used in food flavoring applications for several decades with no reported adverse events documented in FDA records. No food recalls have been associated with this additive. The compound's safety profile appears to be favorable based on available data, though it is not currently designated by the FDA as Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS).

In toxicological studies conducted on the compound, it has demonstrated low acute toxicity in animal models. The chemical structure of raspberry ketone does not contain features typically associated with genotoxicity or mutagenicity. When used as a flavoring agent in food, the concentration levels are typically well below those used in research studies.

Like all food additives, consumption occurs at levels substantially lower than those examined in safety studies. The flavor industry self-regulates through organizations like the Flavor and Extract Manufacturers Association (FEMA), which provides additional safety assessments for flavoring compounds.

## Regulatory Status

Raspberry ketone's regulatory status varies internationally. While the FDA has not granted GRAS status to this compound, it does not appear on the FDA's list of prohibited additives. The compound may be used in the United States under food additive regulations where appropriate toxicological data supports its use.

In the European Union, raspberry ketone is listed in the Community list of flavorings as a naturally occurring flavoring substance and has been evaluated for use in food. Various national food authorities recognize it as acceptable for use in flavoring applications within specified limits.

The lack of GRAS designation does not indicate the compound is unsafe; rather, it reflects the specific regulatory pathway and approval status in the United States. Manufacturers using this additive must comply with applicable regulations and labeling requirements in their respective markets.

## Key Studies

Research examining raspberry ketone has focused on its chemical properties and stability in food systems. Studies have confirmed that the synthetic form is chemically identical to the naturally occurring compound. Flavor stability studies indicate the compound maintains its organoleptic properties across typical storage conditions and food processing parameters.

Toxicological data from animal studies shows the compound has an acceptable safety margin when evaluated against typical food use levels. The absence of reported adverse events in human consumption, combined with its long history of use in flavoring applications, provides additional reassurance regarding its practical safety in food products.

## Sources

- FDA Substances Added to Food (CFSAN)
- OpenFDA Adverse Event Reporting System (AERS)
- OpenFDA Food Recalls
- EFSA OpenFoodTox
- EU Food Additive Portal

## Citation

Additive Facts. "(trihydroxy-phenyl)-propan-1-one — Safety, regulation, and evidence." https://additivefacts.com/additives/trihydroxy-phenyl-propan-1-one. Accessed 2026-05-20.